The United States Postal Service® will soon introduce a redesigned domestic postal money order with enhanced security features.
In early calendar year 2025, the new money orders will be phased into public circulation, and eventually will be available for sale to the public at all Post Office® locations, which can be found at tools.usps.com/locations/home.htm. All existing rules and limitations will remain in effect, including the maximum limit of $1,000.
The Postal Service™ worked with the U.S. Postal Inspection Service® to add enhanced security features in response to changing technological advances. These additional security defenses are designed to deter counterfeiting and other fraudulent activities. This will strengthen customer confidence and trust in safely sending funds.
Knowing how to determine the authenticity of a postal money order by sight will help ensure that this financial instrument remains among the most secure in the world.
Please note some of the new design and security features:
n Red and blue ink with subtle design features of an eagle head and an American flag.
n Two watermarks that are only visible when held up to a light source:
n A watermark of a Pony Express® rider.
n A watermark that reads “United States Postal Service” in a rectangular box.
n A security thread that runs from the top to the bottom of the postal money order, just to the right of the Pony Express rider watermark. When held to the light, the thread reveals the letters “USPS” alternating right side up and upside down throughout the thread.
n A Quick Response (QR) code that directs users to the USPS website to verify the status of money orders using three pieces of information.
If you or a customer suspects fraud, follow the guidance from the Inspection Service:
n If you question the validity of a Postal Money Order, use the Money Order Verification System at 1-866-459-7822, or check the money order status at: usps.com/shop/money-orders.htm:
n Go to “Check the Status of a Money Order”, and
n Click on Money Orders Application.
n If you suspect fraud or criminal activity, call the Inspection Service at 1-877-876-2455 at your earliest convenience.
The current, or “legacy,” postal money order will stay in circulation until all existing stock is depleted. Postal money orders do not expire and will be accepted as valid, if they meet the basic security requirements listed on the USPS.com®, postal money order page at usps.com/shop/money-orders.htm, under “Receiving Money Orders —How to Spot a Fake.”
Employees must adhere to all existing policies related to Postal Money Orders including identification and endorsement requirements.
For more information, go to the Sending Money Orders page at usps.com/shop/money-orders.htm.